The Toyota 4Runner, a name synonymous with off-road prowess and enduring reliability for four decades, is entering a new era. The all-new 2025 Toyota 4Runner is here to redefine its legendary status, staying true to its roots as a dynamic and exceptionally capable off-roader, while seamlessly integrating cutting-edge technology, premium comfort, and enhanced safety features. This sixth-generation 4Runner is not just a redesign; it’s a bold evolution, setting a new benchmark for go-anywhere capability and sophisticated refinement in the SUV segment. Set to be manufactured at Toyota Motor Corporation’s Tahara plant in Japan, the highly anticipated 2025 4Runner is slated to arrive in the U.S. market by the end of 2024, promising a thrilling new chapter for this iconic nameplate.
Dave Christ, Toyota group vice president and general manager, aptly summarizes the significance of this launch: “This all-new 4Runner has incredible versatility and capability that nicely rounds out our truck family story. We’ve sold over 3 million in the 40 years it has been on sale, and this sixth-generation model offers a cool new look and incredible features, yet retains the rugged style and capability our customers love about this icon of adventure.”
Built on a Solid Foundation: The TNGA-F Platform
The 2025 4Runner marks a significant engineering leap, built from the ground up on Toyota’s robust TNGA-F global truck platform. This formidable foundation, shared with other rugged Toyota stalwarts like the Tacoma, Land Cruiser, Tundra, and Sequoia, underscores the 4Runner’s commitment to durability and strength. The platform utilizes a high-strength boxed, steel-ladder frame, a hallmark of true off-road vehicles, and is complemented by a sophisticated multi-link coil rear and double wishbone front suspension system.
This strategic adoption of the TNGA-F platform isn’t solely about reinforcing toughness; it’s about elevating the overall driving experience. The enhanced rigidity of the frame contributes to improved ride comfort and refined on-road handling, a welcome upgrade for daily driving and long journeys. Passengers, even those in the optional third-row seats, will appreciate the smoother, more composed ride quality. Furthermore, the strengthened frame, when paired with the potent i-FORCE MAX powertrain, significantly boosts the 4Runner’s towing capacity to an impressive 6,000 pounds, adding another layer of versatility to this already capable SUV.
Evolving a Legacy: Design Inspired by Heritage and Future
“Designing the legendary 4Runner began with identifying its unique and memorable aspects linked to fun, outdoor recreation,” explains Calty President, Kevin Hunter. “Inspired by Baja desert racing, the high lift, lean body, big tire, rugged athleticism defines the core of 4Runner’s go anywhere purpose”.
The design of the Next Gen 4runner was masterminded by the CALTY design team based in Michigan, who skillfully blended elements of the 4Runner’s rich heritage with a forward-looking vision. Designed in tandem with the Tacoma, the 2025 4Runner shares a familial design language, yet carves out its own distinct identity. Both draw inspiration from the exhilarating world of desert racing, projecting a rugged and purposeful aesthetic. Paying homage to the first and second-generation 4Runners, the designers reintroduced the iconic “wrap over” quarter glass, a nostalgic nod to its lineage. Crucially, the beloved roll-down rear window remains a signature feature, deeply ingrained in the 4Runner’s DNA.
The interior design received meticulous attention, aiming for a user-centric space that balances operational ease with sophisticated functionality. The goal was to create an environment that feels both modern and authentically rugged. Practical features like the second-row tumble seats enhance the 4Runner’s interior adaptability, maximizing cargo space and utility.
i-FORCE Power MAXed: Engine Options for Every Adventure
The 2025 4Runner powertrain lineup offers two compelling turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder options, each engineered for optimal performance and efficiency. The standard i-FORCE engine delivers a robust 278 horsepower and 317 lb.-ft. of torque, channeled through a smooth eight-speed automatic transmission. This engine will power the SR5, TRD Sport, TRD Off-Road, and Limited grades.
For those seeking even greater power and enhanced efficiency, the i-FORCE MAX hybrid powertrain is available on the TRD Off-Road and Limited models, and comes standard on the TRD Pro, Trailhunter, and Platinum trims. This advanced hybrid system pairs the same turbocharged 2.4-liter engine with a 48-hp electric motor integrated into the eight-speed transmission. Drawing power from a 1.87-kWh NiMH battery pack, the i-FORCE MAX system achieves a combined output of up to 326 horsepower and a commanding 465 lb.-ft. of torque. This marks it as the most potent powertrain ever offered in a 4Runner, providing both thrilling performance and improved fuel economy.
Trail Ready: Uncompromising Off-Road Capability
The 4Runner’s reputation is built on its legendary off-road prowess, and the next gen 4Runner elevates this legacy even further. A newly available Stabilizer Bar Disconnect Mechanism significantly enhances suspension articulation at the touch of a button. This innovative feature allows for greater wheel travel, ensuring optimal tire contact with uneven terrain for maximum traction. The 2025 4Runner boasts impressive approach and departure angles, reaching up to 32 degrees and 24 degrees respectively, further solidifying its off-road dominance. The available Multi-Terrain Monitor system enhances driver confidence by providing real-time views of potential obstacles on the central display, aiding in navigating challenging trails.
Drivetrain options cater to diverse needs, with 2WD, part-time 4WD, and full-time 4WD systems available. 2WD models come equipped with an automatic limited-slip differential (Auto LSD), while 4WD models feature an electronically controlled two-speed transfer case with high/low range, Active Traction Control (A-TRAC), and Auto LSD. An electronic locking rear differential is standard on TRD Off-Road, TRD Pro, and Trailhunter grades, maximizing traction in extreme conditions. The Limited trim offers an available full-time four-wheel-drive system with a center locking differential on i-FORCE MAX models, which is standard on the Platinum grade.
The Multi-Terrain Select system now operates in both 4WD-High and 4WD-Low modes, offering customizable settings for various terrains like Mud, Dirt, and Sand. The 4Runner also incorporates the new, quieter CRAWL Control function, acting as a low-speed, off-road cruise control, allowing drivers to focus solely on steering through challenging landscapes. For situations demanding maximum traction, the available electronically activated locking rear differential can distribute power 50/50 to the rear wheels. Downhill Assist Control further enhances off-road capability by managing vehicle speed during steep descents.
A Grade for Everyone: Diverse Options to Suit Every Need
The 2025 4Runner expands its model range, offering an unprecedented nine grades to cater to a wide spectrum of customer preferences. The lineup includes SR5, TRD Sport, TRD Sport Premium, TRD Off Road, TRD Off Road Premium, Limited, Platinum, TRD Pro, and the all-new Trailhunter.
The Trailhunter grade is a standout addition, designed specifically for overlanding enthusiasts. This factory-developed overland rig is a turnkey solution for adventure seekers, built in collaboration with leading off-road component manufacturers. Key features of the Trailhunter include ARB’s Old Man Emu (OME) 2.5-inch forged shocks with rear external piggyback remote reservoirs and a co-designed ARB Roof Rack. The OME shocks, combined with 33-inch Toyo Open Country A/T tires, provide a substantial lift of two inches in the front and one and a half inches in the rear. A standard low-profile high-mount air intake ensures cleaner air intake for the i-FORCE MAX powertrain. For enhanced protection during demanding trails, the Trailhunter is equipped with rock rails and high-strength steel skid plates. Visually distinctive, the Trailhunter features a heritage grill with bronze “TOYOTA” lettering, an integrated 20-inch LED light bar, and color-selectable RIGID LED fog lamps. A powerful 2400W AC inverter with outlets in the cabin and rear cargo area provides ample power for equipment. The Trailhunter is also pre-wired with three easily accessible auxiliary switches, ready for further customization with Toyota accessories.
Introducing a new level of luxury to the 4Runner lineup, the first-ever Platinum grade caters to customers seeking a premium experience without sacrificing capability. Positioned above the Limited grade, the Platinum distinguishes itself with unique black exterior styling elements, heated second-row seats, a standard tow tech package, Head-Up Display, and automatic rain-sensing wipers.
Latest Tech: Modern Connectivity and User Experience
The 2025 4Runner embraces modern technology with new, larger screens and Toyota’s latest Audio Multimedia system. An 8-inch or optional 14-inch multimedia touchscreen, developed by Toyota’s Texas-based Connected Technologies team, houses the intuitive infotainment system. Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility come standard, seamlessly integrating smartphones. An available Qi wireless charging pad with increased power output and USB-C ports in both front and rear rows ensure devices stay charged and connected. A 7-inch gauge cluster is standard on lower grades, while higher grades boast a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster for a more modern and informative driving experience.
The Smart Key System with push-button start is standard across all grades. Select grades offer an available Digital Key via an active Remote Connect trial or subscription, enabling vehicle entry and start using compatible smartphones. This Digital Key can be remotely shared, providing convenient vehicle access management.
Rugged Choice: Completing Toyota’s Truck Family
The next gen 4Runner strengthens Toyota’s comprehensive lineup of rugged, body-on-frame vehicles. Joining the full-size Tundra and the iconic Land Cruiser, the 2025 4Runner provides customers with an expanded range of robust truck and SUV options. These vehicles are engineered to handle challenging conditions and empower owners to explore and discover.
Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 Standard: Advanced Safety and Driver Assistance
Safety is paramount in the 2025 4Runner, with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 (TSS 3.0) standard on all models. This suite of active safety and convenience systems includes:
- Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection
- Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist
- Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control
- Lane Tracing Assist
- Road Sign Assist
- Automatic High Beams
- Proactive Driving Assist
Proactive Driving Assist (PDA), a new addition to TSS, uses the vehicle’s camera and radar to provide gentle braking and/or steering support for tasks like maintaining distance from other vehicles or navigating curves. The TSS 3.0 system features enhanced capabilities across the board, including improved detection for the Pre-Collision System (now including motorcyclist detection), enhanced lane recognition for Lane Departure Alert, and smoother, more natural speed adjustments for Dynamic Radar Cruise Control. Lane Tracing Assist, requiring Dynamic Radar Cruise Control to be active, now includes an Emergency Driving Stop System designed to bring the vehicle to a stop if the driver becomes unresponsive. Road Sign Assist detects and displays speed limit, stop, and other signs on the Multi-Information Display (MID).
Additional available safety features include Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (RCTA), and Hill Start Assist Control (HAC) is also standard.
Beyond Zero Vision: A Step Towards a Sustainable Future
Reflecting Toyota’s commitment to a carbon-neutral future, the 4Runner joins Toyota’s expanding lineup of electrified vehicles wearing the Beyond Zero badge. Toyota is rapidly increasing its electrified vehicle offerings, providing customers with more choices to reduce their carbon footprint.
Limited Warranty and ToyotaCare: Peace of Mind
The 2025 4Runner is backed by Toyota’s comprehensive warranties, including a 36-month/36,000-mile basic new-vehicle warranty. Powertrain components are covered for 60 months/60,000 miles, and corrosion perforation is covered for 60 months with no mileage limitation. Hybrid components are warranted for 8 years/100,000 miles, and the hybrid battery for 10 years/150,000 miles. ToyotaCare, a complimentary plan covering normal factory-scheduled maintenance for two years or 25,000 miles and 2 years of Roadside Assistance, further enhances the ownership experience.
Updated June 27, 2024.
